The windows at that See's store was partially covered. But the part that was uncovered surely had things to “lure” costumers in. See's is known for their holiday promotions and holiday gifts. Around this time, they are focusing on all the Fall holidays. Right now, they're promoting Thanksgiving gifts. One of the signs said “bring a box to the gathering”. If you're a last minute person and didn't have time to make some food or simply don't know what to bring to a Thanksgiving gathering/potluck, purchasing a box of chocolates comes in very handy. After all, we do lead busy lives so that in itself is a push for us as consumers to be persuaded to pick that box of chocolates. Why not.
Halloween also wasn't that too long ago so in the middle of the store, there was a rack of “on sale” Halloween themed chocolates. Perhaps those who couldn't afford the expensive chocolates can purchase the “leftover” Halloween candies-- why not, you get your chocolate craving for a cheaper price and more excitingly, they're in shape of a cat or a witch. I thought that the placing of “sale items” was good because it was right in the middle of the store as opposed to a corner. As soon as people walked in, they are immediately attracted by the sales-- customers save, the store gets rid of their old stuff, everybody wins.
See's also gives out samples of chocolates if you want to buy just a couple of pieces instead of a box. Before telling the sales associate what you want, you could ask for a sample of the piece that you want to purchase. I think it's smart that they don't give out samples when people don't ask. Because if you think about it, people ask for samples because they are more likely to purchase than those who don't ask. This way, See's gets to save their sample chocolates for those who really want it.
As my friend was paying for her Butterscotch lollipop fix, a stand of more chocolates caught the left corner of my eye. There were Christmas themed chocolates already. I guess they were there for people to begin thinking about Christmas gifts and such-- persuasion in action.
Having been to See's before, I remember another friend getting a box of assorted chocolates. When she was about to pay for it, the cashier lady said that for another such and such amount, she could get a second box. Lured into consumerism, my dear friend got another box because she had this mentality that she saved. But did she need that second box? Nope.
It takes two to consume-- the sellers and buyers. It is not fair to solely point the finger at effective and persuasive advertisement, it's their job to sell products. And it is our job as consumers to evaluate what we're consuming.
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